How do you decide if a chemical is a solid or a liquid?
Understanding the properties of a substance is key in determining if it is a solid or liquid. Solids have a definite shape and volume, and do not flow like liquids. Liquids are able to flow and take the shape of their container, while solids retain their shape. Temperature also plays , but it is important to note that some substances can exist in both solid and liquid states at different temperatures. For example, water can exist as a solid (ice), liquid (water), or gas (steam) depending on its temperature.